SAWS Seeks Innovative Water Supply Project Ideas

Sep 17, 2010

San Antonio Water System has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on new water supply projects, seeking innovative ideas from interested parties to help diversify the city’s long-term water supply. This process is expected to help supplement SAWS current long-term supplies through 2060. The application is due Oct. 22.

“While we are ahead of schedule on implementation of our 50-year Water Management Plan, SAWS is still looking to the future and working to secure a long-term water supply to meet our planning objectives,” said Robert R. Puente, SAWS president/CEO.

According to the RFI, the process allows for consideration of projects that would deliver water to the SAWS distribution infrastructure at predetermined locations in Bexar County. To help achieve a goal of diversified supply, projects cannot include the sale or lease of Edwards Aquifer Authority permitted Edwards water that could be pumped from existing SAWS infrastructure.

“I encourage any venture to participate in this open and transparent procurement process to determine which project – or projects – may provide the best value water supply opportunity for San Antonio,” added Puente.

A subsequent request for procurement proposals is expected to be issued in early 2011 with responses due about six months later. Those responses will be expected to provide a more detailed overview of the proposed project, including firm cost estimates, design work, water control and yield, and status of required permits and land acquisition.